So this will be my second ice fishing season. Last season I got skunked on every outing [crazy]. I just went to Rockport last season and had hits and hook ups but never broughr one up. So where is the best destination for catching trout through the ice? And is easily accesible by car.
As it gets closer, I am sure there are a lot of us that would invite you to come along with us. We all were newbies at one point. The more times you get out and the learn the craft, the better you will be. I am sure this year will be more successful for you than last.
Did u have fun huddling with 300+ people on the lake lol. That lake wasn’t so good last year even with that huge fishing tournament that many people want.
I wish I could pull fresh $1000 out of a hole ha ha ha.
Fish Lake!!!
Other than that you just need to pay attention to the reports. Like Tibble was great in December last year. But the up and down cycles make guarantees hard to come by.
But fish lake is one of a kind!!!
Depends on what you want to catch. Starvation was really good to us last year. Strawberry is always good. Early season, Scofield is always hot. Hunnington can be really good early season. Mid season, Electric lake can be good. Pineview can be really good at times also. Causey is hit and miss, mostly miss for me. Deer Creek is off and on, usually freezes late. There are several sleeper lakes around. Just got to get out. Having the right equipment and knowing how to use it helps tremendously.
Fish Lake is usually a very productive place for trout. It has deep and mystical powers +1 on one of a kind no place like it. I love fish lake. Its the only lake where i dont mind catching trout. Those splake were fun. I caught a big bow trying for lakers on the bottom in 80 feet of water. I was amazed it wasnt a pup laker. One of these days i will get a lake trout out of their. Then there is always the perch they provide free bait for other fish. Them fish love their perch meat.
Fish lake is my favorite Ice fishing destination.
Don’t *mind *catching trout. I like that!
Got me thinking - what ice trips have I been skunked on?
I’m almost thinking the Rockport fest was the only one. But I still thought if I’d booked across the lake somewhere more away from the launch (and the ruckus). . . .
I’ve only had two seasons on ice, but they’ve been great. All I can suggest is you have to put away your summer-time approaches, go SMALL and put away the crawlers and find some waxworms.
Another thing about ice - if they ain’t biting where you are - MOVE. I have seen trout school - so we’re sitting on a pocket of perch - the all of a sudden the trout show up - grap a jig here, nab a bite there - then they’re gone. Maybe 15-20 mins they might pass back thru. But that’s not always the show.
I’ve also found - if you get out before sun-up - start shallow, then move deeper as the morning progresses.
I know some folks that bail by 10. Think it’s all over - but I’d found the “second breakfast” came on by noon or so. The Gills refire.
That’ll all vary from lake to lake, day to day. One thing about ice- lakes - try the inlet. Especially later in the season.
may not be the case one all lakes, or all situations, but pretty common - fresh water, most oxygenated, fresh food sources coming in. . . . you might have a few new best friends to meet, but . . .
Oh - spring bobbers! If you don’t have 'em, get em!
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Wherever you go whatever you do do not be afraid to talk to the fisherman on the lake this will be my third ice fishing season and my first was horrible I’m talkin 1 fish in 11 trips to the ice last year I hit rockport about 10 times on the first trip I talk to the guy fishing next me he told me what to do hooked me up show me where the fish were on the sonar and i cought my limit every trip I went my 6 year old daughter even caught a 22 inch rainbow from Rockport same exact thing last year on starvation with perch talk to the guys on the ics as I walked out and cought buckets full of perch every time people are way way way nice on the ice or at least everyone I’ve talked to
Talk to the other fishers on your way out and then move away from the crowds.
Keep reading the posts as they come on there is a lot to learn from your fellow fishers.
Been Ice fishing since Ut. opened up year round fishing. 24 years I think. It’s great for families, friends, or the serious loner looking for that one fish. Something for most any one.
Thanks everyone for the advice! Is Huntington still accesible in winter by car?
Fish Lake is always worth a trip.
Mill Meadow is also fantastic.
Rockport - i usually have success fishing from 5 to 10 feet below the ice.
East Canyon - is the only place where I use powerbait ice fishing.
Pine-View - I haven’t had much luck here. In the past couple of years.
Causey - Always pretty slow, unless you get into a school of kokanee.
Panguitch Lake- Is good for fat rainbows and Cuts in the slot.
Otter Creek - Is good for fat rainbows.
Those are the only places I have ice fished.